Verizon Commits $1.75 Million to Help Provide Upgraded Broadband Network for New Jersey's Statewide Hub Libraries System

NEWARK, N.J. - The New Jersey State Library will have a new broadband network that will improve high-speed Internet access for the more than 300 libraries in the state's Hub Libraries system and provide other features as well, thanks to a $1.75 million grant from Verizon.

The new network is expected to be in place by the first quarter of 2006. The grant is being provided through Verizon's Access New Jersey program.

"Helping the people of New Jersey stay connected is what Verizon New Jersey is all about, and Verizon's Access New Jersey Program is a great example of making those vital connections possible," said Dennis Bone, Verizon New Jersey president. "Through Access New Jersey, Verizon has committed more than $150 million to bring high-speed communications technology for voice, data and video to over 2,500 classrooms and libraries all over the state."

Norma Blake, state librarian, said, "This commitment from Verizon positions us strategically to take advantage of current opportunities and emerging technologies. Our goal is to foster the highest quality and most cost-effective Internet access for New Jersey libraries. Through this agreement with Verizon, we will be able to reach our goal."

The new infrastructure design will feature a fully redundant and scalable network, including two service centers from which technology services such as e-mail, Web site hosting and technical support will be delivered by a team that will be on call 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Two separate Internet service providers (ISPs) will serve the new network, so that if one has problems on its network, traffic will automatically be routed to the other.

About the New Jersey State Library

The New Jersey State Library has been offering the highest quality service to the executive, legislative and judicial branches of state government for more than 200 years. The State Library's mission has expanded since its establishment in 1796 to lead in the provision, promotion and support of high quality library and information services to all the people of New Jersey. The State Library's mission is filled through the efforts of the State Library Information Center, the Library Development Bureau and the Library for the Blind and Handicapped. For more information, visit www.njstatelib.org.

About Verizon

With more than $71 billion in annual revenues, Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ) is one of the world's leading providers of communications services. Verizon has a diverse work force of 214,000 in four business units: Domestic Telecom provides customers based in 28 states with wireline and other telecommunications services, including broadband. Verizon Wireless owns and operates the nation's most reliable wireless network, serving 45.5 million voice and data customers across the United States. Information Services operates directory publishing businesses and provides electronic commerce services. International includes wireline and wireless operations and investments, primarily in the Americas and Europe. For more information, visit www.verizon.com.

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